Experiential and work‑integrated learning

Experiential learning is a hands-on approach that allows for deeper understanding of concepts through action and reflection. Going a step further, work-integrated learning (WIL) connects students with industry and community partners so they can apply their learning and create lasting relationships outside MRU.

Mount Royal University offers a broad selection of work-integrated learning opportunities. Information design students engage in experiential learning throughout their Bachelor of Communication Studies – Major in Information Design degree.

Community Service Learning (CSL): students work on class projects with community partners.

Internships: paid work experience that’s required for graduation.

Research Assistantships: every year our faculty posts a number of RA opportunities that give students meaningful research experience outside the classroom.

Industry connections

The Information Design program now has a 15+ year history with Calgary-based employers and partners through work integrated learning. 

The following organisations employ the highest numbers of our students for internships and after graduation:

  • City of Calgary
  • WestJet
  • University of Calgary
  • ATB Financial
  • Shareworks by Morgan Stanley
  • Shaw Communications
  • Critical Mass
  • IBM
  • J5
  • Microsoft
  • Calgary Airport Authority
  • HelpSeeker
  • Calgary Counselling Centre
  • Alberta Health Services

Community connections

Information Design students and faculty lead, serve, and support various professional and academic organisations in
graphic design, information design, design research, UX/UI, and technical communication:

  • Calgary UX Group
  • Canadian Society for the Digital Humanities (CSDH/SCHN)
  • Data Visualization Society
  • Design Professionals of Canada Canada
  • Design Research Society (DRS)
  • International Institute for Information Design
  • Registered Graphic Designers of Canada
  • Rhetoric Society of America (RSA)
  • Trico Changemakers Studio
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE)
  • IncluCity Calgary
  • International Council of Design
  • Vivacity